If the attachment is not discharged, and a judgment is recovered in the action in favor of the plaintiff, and an execution is issued thereon, the sheriff or marshal shall sell at public auction, after publication of notice pursuant to Section 6062 of the Government Code, the vessel, with its tackle, appurtenances, appliances, furnishings, and furniture, or such interest therein as may be necessary, and shall apply the proceeds of the sale as follows:
(a) When the action is brought for demands other than the wages of mariners, boatmen, and others employed in the service of the vessel sold, to the payment of the amount of those wages, as specified in the execution.
(b) To the payment of the judgment and costs, including his or her fees.
The sheriff or marshal shall pay any balance remaining to the owner, or to the master, agent, or consignee who may have appeared on behalf of the owner, or if there is no appearance, then into court, subject to the claim of any party or parties legally entitled thereto.
(Amended by Stats. 1996, Ch. 872, Sec. 96. Effective January 1, 1997.)